London: Irish winger Damian Duff has accused both FIFA and sports manufacturer Adidas of conspiring to get France through to the World Cup finals.
"Do I think it's a conspiracy? Definitely. FIFA want the big teams in the World Cup, they want France in the World Cup, and it may sound silly but they want teams sponsored by Adidas. Adidas sponsor the World Cup; they sponsor France. Michel Platini has a lot of influence as well," a furious Duff was quoted as saying.
Ironically, Duff picks up over 100,000 pounds a year to wear Adidas boots, but this did stop him from ranting against the sports manufacturer.
"Maybe we'd have had a better chance of going to the World Cup if it was sponsored by Umbro," he said.
Thierry Henry's handball cheated Ireland.
Duff revealed manager Giovanni Trapattoni warned his team not to give ref Martin Hansson any chance to give a decision against them.
"FIFA have to take a long hard look at themselves now. The draw and then the decision the ref gave. Incredible. I don't know what's going on behind the scenes; it's just a joke. It's reminiscent of Maradona in 1986. We feel so cheated," Duff said.
ANI
First Published: Friday, November 20, 2009, 16:05